Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: A Healthier Twist on a Classic
Craving the tangy, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken wings but looking for a healthier alternative?
Look no further than these Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Made with ground chicken, these meatballs are not only delicious but also a lighter option that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Think of them as the “athleisure wear” of buffalo wings—all the comfort with a healthier twist!
Why We Love Buffalo Chicken Wings
Buffalo chicken wings are a classic indulgence, perfect for game days, parties, or just a treat-yourself moment.
The combination of crispy skin, tender meat, and that signature buffalo sauce is hard to resist.
But let’s face it, they’re not exactly the healthiest choice for regular consumption. That’s where these buffalo chicken meatballs come in.
The Healthier Alternative
By transforming the flavors of buffalo wings into meatballs made with ground chicken, we’ve created a dish that’s easier on the waistline but still packed with flavor.
These meatballs are like the “skinny jeans” of buffalo wings—they fit comfortably into your healthier lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Make-Ahead Tips
Rolling meatballs can be time-consuming, so feel free to shape them up to one day ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
You can also enlist help from a friend or family member to make the process faster and more enjoyable.
Adjust the Heat
If you prefer your buffalo chicken world on the spicier side, feel free to dial up the amount of cayenne pepper.
These meatballs have a moderate level of heat, but you can customize them to your liking.
Enjoy!
These Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are the perfect blend of flavor and health.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty dinner option, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.
So go ahead, indulge in the flavors of buffalo wings without the guilt—your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!
Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- ¾ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons minced scallions divided
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce
- ⅔ cup Frank’s Hot Sauce use less if you are using another hot sauce
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Blue Cheese Dip for Dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray (line it with foil first if tyou like), or line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, egg, 2 tablespoons scallions, salt and cayenne in a bowl until well blended.
- Roll the mixture into about 50 meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Bake the meatballs for 5 minutes until they have firmed up. Carefully transfer them to the slow cooker.
- While the meatballs are baking, combine the hot sauce, unsalted butter, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Once the meatballs are in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over the meatballs, then cook on low for 2 hours.
- Transfer to a serving dish, if desired, or serve them right from the pot. Sprinkle over the remaining 2 tablespoons minced scallions and serve with the blue cheese dip for dipping.
Notes
DID YOU LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Want more delicious recipes like this? Follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration! Click here to Follow me on Pinterest
